Library System Launches Program of Automatic Renewals
Beginning today (March 22), the county’s library system will launch a program of automatically renewing certain materials borrowed by library users up to three times, officials announced.
DHHS Accepting Applications for Community Services Grants Program
The county’s Department of Health and Human Services is accepting applications from nonprofit organizations for the FY22 Community Services Grants Program, officials announced. The one-time grants of up to $10,000 are available “to support health and human service projects that promote a safe, healthy, and self-sufficient community.”
Council to Consider Loosening Restrictions on Organized Sports
The County Council, sitting as the Board of Health, plans to meet this afternoon (March 19) to hold a public hearing and vote on an amended regulation that would loosen restrictions on organized youth sports. If the regulation is passed, all organized sports, whether played indoors or out, would need to have a COVID protocol plan approved by the county’s health officer (or his designee).
Council Unanimously Approves Regulation Easing COVID–19 Restrictions
The County Council, acting as the Board of Health, yesterday unanimously approved a regulation loosening many of the COVID–19 restrictions that were in place. During the discussion, council members made it clear they felt pressured to do so after Gov. Larry Hogan surprised officials with a March 9 announcement that lifted many statewide COVID-19 restrictions as of 5 p.m. Friday, March 12.
Council to Hold Hearing, Vote Today on Easing Some COVID–19 Restrictions
The County Council is set to meet this afternoon for a public hearing and vote on revisions County Executive Marc Elrich has proposed to his executive orders implementing certain pandemic-related restrictions in the county.
County Food Council Adds Surveys in Three More Languages
The Montgomery County Food Council has added surveys in three additional languages as it seeks resident input regarding 2021 food security initiatives. The survey, which launched in January, is now available in French, Amharic and Mandarin in addition to English and Spanish.
Health Organization Expands Effort to Encourage Residents to Get COVID–19 Test
The African American Health Program has expanded its effort to encourage the county’s Black residents to get tested for the COVID-19 virus. The organization is partnering with Black faith organizations such as the Islamic Society of the Washington Area and Black Greek letter organizations like Alpha Phi Alpha fraternity to help reach the targeted communities.
Council Seeking Applicants for Planning Board Vacancy
The County Council has announced it is looking for applicants for an upcoming vacancy on the Planning Board. Commissioner Tina Patterson’s term ends June 14 and she has indicated that she will apply for another term. Applications to fill the position are due no later than March 23 at 5 p.m.
County Clinics Now Vaccinating Those Between 65–74, Essential Workers
The county’s COVID-19 vaccination clinics have expanded their service and begun vaccinating people between the ages of 65 and 74, as well as essential workers and individuals with developmental disabilities, the Department of Health and Human Services announced. “Essential workers” include transit workers, teachers, and childcare workers.